Often times when a student-athlete changes schools making the necessary adjustments to succeed do not come easy. But tell that to Ohio State sophomore setter Marisa Main and she just laughs. Main, who transferred to Ohio State this season after a sensational freshman year at Xavier, has had no problems adjusting to the challenges a school like Ohio State presents. In fact, she has seemingly picked up where she left off at as a Musketeer, settling into the crucial role of playing setter and becoming a great asset for the Buckeyes.

“In coming to Ohio State there were definitely some adjustments to make,” Main, a Louisville, Ky., native said. “It is a different atmosphere here, the girls are more competitive, and more intense and they all have a desire to win. I am a very competitive and intense athlete so making that adjustment came easy. The hardest thing was getting used to the size of a school like Ohio State. It was a little overwhelming at first but I have gotten used to the size.”

Making the choice to transfer to Ohio State was not a hard decision for Main, though it seemed somewhat uncharacteristic for an athlete who excelled as much as she did to change schools.

“Playing at Xavier was a good experience for me,” Main, a standout player for Assumption High School, said. “But it was one of those things where I wasn’t happy and needed a change of pace. I saw Ohio State as a new opportunity and was very excited to come to a school this size. They have an excellent program here and I heard great things about coach (Jim) Stone. So I figured being a Buckeye was my best bet.”

Main has fit right into the Buckeye mold this season and along the way has made new friends and many new memories.

“The girls are great here, even though we have only played a few games this season I have made some great friends,” Main said. “Stacy Gordon has really been a huge influence on the way I play and act. She is a tremendous leader and athlete, who is always there to help.”

Outside of volleyball Main is just a regular girl who enjoys spending time with family and friends and being a role model for her 5 year old sister Anna.

“I have so much fun with my sister Anna,” Main said. “It’s been a blessing to be a role model for her. When I go home to see my family we are always hanging out, doing fun little things like arts and crafts. Anna is a real inspiration for me and my family. Anna and my parents have been to every game this season and have been excellent motivators for me this year, giving me added confidence.”

Main’s confidence and desire to succeed has been apparent this season as she has settled into being the top setter for the Buckeyes, tallying 190 assists.

With Main’s ability, high intensity and competitive attitude blended with an already talented squad led by three-time All-American Stacy Gordon the Buckeyes are off to their first 4-0 start since 2001 and looking for their first Big Ten Championship since 1994.

“I want to see us win the Big Ten championship this year,” Main said. “I want to see Stacy (Gordon) leave Ohio State with a Big Ten championship. I also want to see us in the NCAA tournament competing for a national championship. We are a great team. I know if we play tough and together we will accomplish our goals.”